Why social connection is important in retirement villages

Building strong social connections is essential for a happy and healthy life. 

A good social network gives you a sense of belonging and adds purpose to your life. 

As we age, our social circles and daily routines naturally change. This is especially true in retirement, when we may lose the regular interactions and structure of our usual work routine.

Why social connection matters in retirement 

Studies have shown that social connection can contribute to longer, healthier lives. 

Older people are particularly vulnerable to social isolation, which can have a detrimental affect on health. If mobility decreases it can become difficult for older people to visit their friends or community centres, and if their social circles become smaller it can be difficult to meet new people or form new social connections. 

Staying socially active can support overall mental and physical wellbeing as we age.

That’s why living in a retirement village can be so beneficial. Having neighbours at the same stage of life provides an opportunity for social connection through various activities within the village and shared facilities.

Community in retirement living  

Many people decide to move into a retirement village because of the chances to connect with like minded individuals and be part of a community. 

Retirement villages in Australia build community through: 

• Social activities - Retirement homes often have social programs that include a range of activities. For example, group fitness classes, card and games sessions, arts and crafts, happy hours and afternoon teas.
• Shared facilities - Retirement villages often include access to shared amenities. These include gyms, cafes, libraries, games and activity rooms, community gardens and Men’s Sheds, which encourage residents to interact.
• Support networks - Living in a retirement village allows the opportunity to form meaningful connections and support networks with other residents. Whether it’s adjusting to retirement or navigating a health concern, these support networks provide support and companionship. These relationships can help improve your mental wellbeing and day-to-day life.

Community engagement at our Southern Cross Care retirement sites

At Southern Cross Care, we understand it’s vital for people to stay socially involved and connected at all ages.

Most of our retirement villages feature community centres, gyms, libraries and other shared spaces. 

There are a range of social activities and events for our residents to participate in. From gardening groups to weekly group dinners, there is always something to get involved with! 

We also have resident committees who meet regularly to organise activities and outings. 

Our Retirement Living communities are located in South Australia, Victoria and the Northern Territory.

Examples of community involvement in our retirement villages

The Mornington Retirement Village, Victoria 

There's no shortage of things to do at The Mornington Retirement Village! 

The Art Lovers Group has proven to be a popular fun activity for our Mornington residents. 

The Group meets weekly for two hours to share their passion for art while working on their own projects and spending some time socialising as well. 

The dinners held monthly in the community centre are always a hit with around a 100 residents in attendance. 

Besides wonderful dinners, there are ongoing activities on offer such as the Men’s Shed and contributing to the community garden.

Glen Woodley Serviced Apartments, Myrtle Bank 

The regular singing group at Glen Woodley Serviced Apartments brings together their residents for singing and socialising. 

When Glen Woodley resident Mary moved into Glen Woodley, she brought her grand piano to the shared dining room. 

She then decided to start up a regular singing group with fellow residents to increase community engagement. 

Residents now gather weekly to sing for an hour and enjoy an uplifting social activity. The group has been a wonderful addition to the Glen Woodley social calendar. 

Pooraka Retirement Living, Adelaide 

Our Pooraka Retirement Living residents saw an opportunity for their neighbours to become more connected and to socialise more.

They decided to put in the effort to start up groups and events, with the help of a community garden project funded by the Community Foundation at the centre of the plan to engage the residents. 

Residents often spend time working in the garden together, sharing a chat in the green space or sharing a delicious meal made with the produce. 

The Pooraka Retirement Living village has harvested an astounding 37 pumpkins from their pumpkin patch!

Oaklands Park Retirement Living, Adelaide 

Oaklands Park Retirement Living residents enjoy getting involved in various group activities such as gardening and film afternoons. 

The residents enjoy this time as it allows them to connect, but aside from planned activities the neighbours also regularly check in on each other informally. 

Residents at Oaklands Park value the peace of mind that comes from living in a supportive community where neighbours look out for one another.

It’s this awareness of the importance of social connection that makes the Oaklands Park community special. 

Click here to find out more about our Retirement Living communities located in SA, VIC and NT.